Mariposa officials warn CalFresh and food access could be disrupted if federal shutdown continues

County Administrative Officer Joe Lynch told the Board of Supervisors on Oct. 21 that Mariposa County had not yet seen major operational impacts from a continuing federal government shutdown but that risks would grow if it extended into November.

"We will be done with the '24 audit in November," Lynch said, adding that the county is monitoring federal funding streams closely and will update the public if impacts materialize.

Christina Cahill, director of Health and Human Services Agency, warned the board that the county could be unable to issue CalFresh benefits if the shutdown persisted past Nov. 1. "We do anticipate if the shutdown continues to November 1, we will not be able to pay out CalFresh benefits," Cahill said.

Cahill also said USDA-funded food bank operations could be affected and that an estimated 2,000 families in the county rely on CalFresh. She advised that residents seeking to donate food or find local assistance contact Manna House and that county staff would publish a food-resource list.

Lynch and Cahill said the county and its nonprofit and faith-based partners are preparing a social media campaign and other outreach to direct residents to food resources if federal benefits lapse. Lynch said state agencies have in past shutdowns stepped in to try to cover gaps, but outcomes are uncertain.

The board did not take formal action on the briefing; staff said they will return with updates as the situation develops.